More than Milestones

18. Is a Helmet Really Necessary? A Pediatric PT and Orthotist Break Down Flat Spots, Torticollis & Treatment Options

Kaitlin Rickerd

In this episode of More than Milestones, I sit down with Becki Westover, a certified orthotist with Bloom Kids who has over 20 years of experience working with infants and families. Becki explains what a certified orthotist does and why helmet therapy can feel confusing or controversial for parents.

We talk through common concerns about infant helmets, including weight, size, comfort, and whether helmets interfere with development. Becki clears up misconceptions by explaining how helmets are designed, what they’re made of, and how they support natural head growth rather than forcing change.

The conversation also covers the most common types of head flattening, why cases seem to be on the rise, the impact of the Back to Sleep campaign on tummy time, and the connection between torticollis, IVF pregnancies, and head shape differences. Becki shares when helmet therapy is most effective, why some families are referred to neurosurgery first, and how parents can approach these referrals with more confidence and less fear.


Follow Becki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckiatbloom/


Visit Becki’s Website: www.bloomkidsorthotics.com


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This episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change Network.